Bernard Kerik, Former NYC Police Commissioner, Dies at 69 After Illness
Bernard Kerik, former NYC police commissioner, has died at 69 after a private illness, leaving behind a complex legacy of service and controversy.
Bernard Kerik, NYPD chief during 9/11, dies
World News Group
Former NYPD Commissioner, 9/11 hero Bernie Kerik dead at 69
The Post Millennial
Overview
Bernard Kerik, the former New York City police commissioner, died on May 29, 2025, at 69 after a private illness. His death was confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel, who praised Kerik as a patriot and warrior. Kerik was decorated over 100 times for valor, notably for his leadership during the 9/11 attacks. However, he faced legal troubles, serving nearly four years in prison for tax fraud before receiving a pardon from President Trump in 2020. After his release, he continued to work in crisis management and was involved in legal challenges regarding the 2020 election. He is survived by his wife and children.
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Articles (18)
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"…Kerik oversaw the police response to the deadliest terrorist attack in US history, and was later appointed by former US President George Bush as head of a provisional police force in Iraq."
BBC News·1M·"…Kerik was hailed as a hero after the 9/11 attack and eventually nominated to head the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, before a dramatic fall from grace that ended with him behind bars."
NPR·1M·"…Kerik dedicated his life to protecting the American people, serving as New York City's top cop in the wake of terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001."
USA TODAY·1M·"…Kerik, an Army veteran, rose to the pinnacle of law enforcement before a fall so steep that even a city jail named after him was renamed."
ABC News·1M·"…Kerik was hailed as a hero after the 9/11 attack and eventually nominated to head the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, before a dramatic fall from grace that ended with him behind bars."
NBC News·1M·"…Kerik, an Army veteran, rose to the pinnacle of law enforcement before a fall so steep that even a city jail named after him was renamed."
Associated Press·1M·FAQ
Bernard Kerik was decorated more than 100 times for bravery and valor, notably for his leadership and rescue efforts during the 9/11 attacks, including saving victims from burning buildings and capturing dangerous criminals.
Bernard Kerik served nearly four years in prison for tax fraud before receiving a pardon from President Donald Trump in 2020.
After his release, Bernard Kerik founded the Kerik Group, a crisis and risk management consulting firm, and was involved in legal challenges related to the 2020 presidential election.
FBI Director Kash Patel described Bernard Kerik as 'a warrior, a patriot, and one of the most courageous public servants this country has ever known,' praising his bravery, service, and legacy.
Bernard Kerik is survived by his wife and children.
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